Separation anxiety in puppies is a common problem, but one that can be, thankfully remedied fairly simply. Separation anxiety is technically the fear or stress your puppy experiences while they are left alone. Any puppy or even adult dog who has formed a strong connection to their owner can potentially experience puppy separation anxiety.
How to Recognize Puppy Separation Anxiety
If your puppy barks or whines obsessively whenever you leave home or when you return home, they may be experiencing high levels of separation anxiety during your absence. Other symptoms include potty accidents in the house, (after your pup has been properly housebroken), and even destruction of your property.
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There are various causes of destructive behaviors in dogs but if the items your pup is wreaking havoc on are personal items such as shoes, socks, and underpants, their naughtiness is likely a result of their anxiety. When they miss you, they seek out items and places where your scent is the strongest.
Separation Anxiety in Puppies – Prevention
- You can help prevent puppy anxiety issues before you bring your puppy home. Whenever possible, you should wait until your pup has been weaned from their mother. That generally occurs at about 2 months of age, but it can vary a bit depending on where you are getting your puppy from. Once a puppy is weaned, they are able to achieve some independence from their mother and their littermates. If your puppy was taken away from their mother before 8 weeks of age, they may be more susceptible to separation anxiety.
- Prevention continues once you have brought your puppy into your home. You should try to ensure that there is someone home for the majority of the first two weeks after you bring your new puppy home. If you do need to leave the puppy alone, do so for the shorted amount of time possible and start slowly – with 10-15 minutes at a time or less. Before you leave, do not behave any differently than any other time you are around your puppy.
- If you make a big production out of leaving, your puppy will be much more likely to be nervous and prone to anxiety. Likewise, when you return home after being gone, do not make a big fuss about your being back. If possible, ignore your pup for 5-10 minutes when you get home. Once they have calmed down, only then give them attention. It is important that they do not start to associate your coming and going with your attention or lack of attention.
Stop Puppy Separation Anxiety
If you pooch has already started to demonstrate symptoms of separation anxiety, some of the prevention techniques will also help. Do whatever you can to help your puppy be less concerned about being left alone. Whenever possible, change-up your routine. Step outside for just a few minutes and then come back.
Leave for work or school at slightly different times if possible. Eat breakfast before you shower one day and then shower before breakfast the next. Your puppy is keenly aware of your schedule and these little changes can help stop separation anxiety in puppies and older dogs alike.
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